5 best whiskies for every whisky lover

The high-end world of fine dining is excitedly looking forward to a host of new releases from Scotland to Seattle in the form of spicy or sweet, smoky or fruity rich whiskey blends. Connoisseurs will be thrilled with the 5 best whiskies this fall.

1. Ardbeg Twenty One Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

Ardbeg Twenty One (at $500 per bottle) is a nod to simpler times. Distilled in 1993 and ’94, it is entirely aged in former bourbon barrels. The flavour is bursting with vanilla and tropical fruit notes (coconut, banana, hints of mango, and pineapple), along with buttery biscuit undertone. All of that is beautifully balanced with peat and smoke, cementing the status of this whiskey as one of Islay’s most historic treasures.

2. 2016 Old Forester 15th Anniversary Birthday Bourbon

Barrelled on June 4, 2004, and bottled this year, this year’s edition is one of the better bourbons in this (mostly) distinguished series. With rich, sweet, and just a touch bitter, it is full of caramel and candied orange peel. A long and savoury experience -it will set you back $80 a bottle to enjoy the he oak and peppery spice start coming through, and the dry and sweet mingle on the finish.

3. Westland Distillery Garryana American Malt Whiskey

As one of the pioneers of the burgeoning American malt whiskey scene, their latest release is limited to 2,500 bottles and is the first in what Westland is calling the “Native Oak Series”. Generous notes of honey, cherries, and dark chocolate complement wisps of smoke, before a long, tobacco-and-leather finish. The smooth blend is priced at $125 per bottle.

4. Lagavulin 25-Year-Old

At $1,200 per bottle Lagavulin promises (and delivers) extremely smooth and pleasurable notes amplified and rounded out by the extra time in wood for its limited edition whiskey. The gentle finish will make novices shudder and aficionados sigh with delight.

5. Glencadam 25-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whiskey

The limited-edition 25 Year Old (at $500 per bottle) is aged in ex-bourbon barrels, giving it an unsual sparkle for its age. Its pale gold colour and a sweet, floral nose blend beautifully with the supple and creamy taste with rich notes of vanilla, honey, and marzipan. This is the ultimate treat for any respectable whiskey fan.